The North-East's expertise in the hi-tech world of nanotechnology was showcased to the world yesterday with an international delegation visiting the region.

Members of the UK Nano Forum 2006 were at Newcastle University and at the science and technology research park Netpark, in Sedgefield. They met Professor Zulf Ali, from Teesside University's School of Science and Technology.

David Coppock, from conference organisers UK Trade & Investment, said: "The group includes delegates from around the world, including Europe, South Korea, Japan, Singapore and China. And this is an ideal opportunity for the region's companies and our research institutions to showcase the region's expertise in the field of nanotechnology."

Newcastle-based Cenamps, a national Centre of Excellence for emerging technologies hosted the visit. The first UK Nano Forum is being held this week in London, and is aiming to promote the UK's best nanotechnology innovation.

The region has been selected as one of only two locations outside London which delegates are travelling to. Cenamps chief executive Mike Pitkethly said: "The fact that North-East England has been selected alongside Oxford and London demonstrates the significance of the region's nanotech industry at a national level, and is a testament to the high levels of innovation in this sector within the region."